Chlamydia trachomatis PCR (naats)
Microbiology
Notes
- The test is not validated for rectal, pharyngeal or eye samples and the possibility of false positive and negative results may be higher with these sample types.
- Visibly blood stained samples and heavily purulent samples are not desirable as these may lead to false negative results.
- Urine samples from female patients are relatively insensitive and are not recommended.
- Urine samples from patients using Replens vaginal moisturiser may give invalid or false negative results.
See also:
Sample requirements
Urine
- Prior to sampling, the patient should not have urinated for at least an hour.
- Collect 10–30 mL of a first catch urine sample (a minimum of 5 mL urine is required).
- Boric acid containers are NOT suitable.
30 mL sterile universal container
Swabs
Instructions for self collection of vaginal swabs
- Endocervical or self-taken vaginal swab.
- Pharyngeal swab.
- Rectal swab.
- Eye swab.
Required information
- Relevant clinical details.
Storage/transport
- Store urine at 2–30°C for up to 24 hours.
- Store transferred urines and swabs in Chlamydia transport medium at 2–30°C. These remain viable for up to 3 months.
- Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature.
Turnaround time
Up to 4 days.
All positive eye, pharyngeal, female urine and female rectal samples are confirmed locally which may slightly increase the turnaround time.